The best cycling routes around Usk Reservoir
4.7
(22)
291
riders
29
rides
Touring cycling routes around Usk Reservoir are set within the Brecon Beacons National Park, offering diverse landscapes for cyclists. The area features a significant body of water surrounded by the serene Glasfynydd Forest, with routes that include compacted-stone forestry tracks and tarmac roads. Cyclists can expect quiet lanes, rolling countryside, and scenic views along the River Usk, with glimpses of the Black Mountains. The terrain includes undulating sections and some climbs, providing varied experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Usk Reservoir
- The most popular touring cycling route is Usk Reservoir Track – Stream Under Old Metal Bridge loop from Usk Reservoir Dam, a 5.9 miles (9.5 km) trail that takes 50 minutes to complete. This easy route follows the water's edge through Glasfynydd Forest.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Trecastle and Myddfai loop from Usk Reservoir – Brecon Beacons National Park, a difficult 23.4 miles (37.7 km) path. This route explores the wider area with significant elevation gain.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Ynysfaen Campsite – Usk Reservoir Track loop from Trecastle, a 17.9 miles (28.9 km) trail leading through remote countryside, often completed in about 2 hours 25 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Usk Reservoir is defined by quiet forest tracks, remote country lanes, and views across the reservoir and Black Mountains. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy loops to challenging longer routes.
- The routes in Usk Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Usk Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
6
riders
37.7km
02:51
610m
610m
Cycle the difficult 23.4-mile Trecastle and Myddfai loop from Usk Reservoir, gaining 2012 feet with diverse Brecon Beacons views.
3.0
(1)
24
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
12
riders
83.7km
05:33
1,200m
1,200m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
11
riders
28.9km
02:26
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
27.0km
02:17
360m
360m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Brecon Castle, located in the town of Brecon in Wales, is a historic site with a rich heritage that dates back to the 11th century. Originally built as a wooden fort by the Normans after their invasion of Wales, it was later rebuilt in stone. Here are some key points about Brecon Castle: Historical Significance: Norman Foundation: The castle was originally constructed around 1093 by Bernard de Neufmarché as part of the Norman conquest of Wales. It served as a strategic military stronghold. Fortifications: Over the centuries, the castle underwent various modifications and expansions, with the addition of stone walls and towers to enhance its defensive capabilities. Role in Conflicts: Brecon Castle played a significant role in various conflicts, including the Welsh Wars and later during the English Civil War, when it was captured and fortified by Royalist forces. Ownership: The castle was granted to different noble families over the years and was used for both military and administrative purposes. Architectural Features: Stone Structure**: The castle features impressive stone walls, towers, and a gatehouse, reflecting medieval military architecture. Ruins**: While parts of the castle are in ruins today, the remaining structures give visitors a glimpse into its historical significance and architectural style. Modern Usage: Tourism**: Brecon Castle is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors interested in history and architecture. The site offers guided tours and information about its storied past. Hotel**: The castle has also been repurposed as a hotel, allowing guests to experience staying in a historic setting. Location: Brecon Castle is situated near the Brecon Beacons National Park, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the natural beauty of the area. Brecon Castle serves as a reminder of Wales' turbulent history and is an important heritage site that continues to attract interest for its historical and architectural value.
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Nice view on a clear day 👌🏼
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Stop, listen, and relax with nature sounds
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Lovely steep dual carriageway with minimum traffic from the valley up to the sennybridge military training area. Only on Welsh mountain roads would you find this
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Brecon Castle is a very unique place. It is a castle that is now within the grounds of a private hotel. Though most of the original castle is long gone, there are still the imposing remains of the tower left, and this is visible from many areas of the town. There is a particularly good view of it from the town bridge. Strategically sighted, overlooking the confluence of the Afon Honddu and the River Usk, it dominates this part of the town and is a reminder of the powers of the Normans when they started to build it in 1093. Originally, the castle would have had two entrances as well as a postern gate. There would have been a drawbridge over the River Usk and another over the Afon Honddu. At the time, it was built as the administrative and military headquarters of the Lordship of Brecon and as a reminder to all that they lived among one of the most powerful families of the day.
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Excellent track around the reservoir suitable for most bikes with gravel tyres. The Usk Reservoir, also known as Cronfa Wysg in Welsh, sits at an elevation of 1,006 feet (307 m) in the upper Usk Valley within the Brecon Beacons National ParK. It marks the county boundary between Carmarthenshire and Powys.
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A beautiful section the Cycle Across the Beacons route, with the road passing to the South of the Usk reservoir and crossing the River Usk itself.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Usk Reservoir?
There are over 30 touring cycling routes available around Usk Reservoir, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include easy loops along the water's edge and more challenging routes exploring the wider Brecon Beacons National Park.
What do other cyclists say about the touring routes in Usk Reservoir?
The touring cycling routes around Usk Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet forest tracks, remote country lanes, and the scenic views across the reservoir and the Black Mountains.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Usk Reservoir offers several easy touring cycling routes. A popular choice is the Usk Reservoir Track – Stream Under Old Metal Bridge loop from Usk Reservoir Dam, which is 5.9 miles (9.5 km) long and follows the water's edge through Glasfynydd Forest. This route features compacted-stone forestry tracks and tarmac roads, making it suitable for various fitness levels, though it does have some undulating sections.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, the area provides difficult routes with significant elevation gain. An example is the Trecastle and Myddfai loop from Usk Reservoir – Brecon Beacons National Park, a 23.4-mile (37.7 km) path that explores the wider area. The region also features opportunities to explore longer routes like the Epynt Way and ancient Roman roads with challenging climbs and rougher tracks.
Are there circular touring cycling routes around Usk Reservoir?
Yes, the Usk Reservoir is well-known for its circular cycling options. The main circular trail around the reservoir is approximately 8.7 km (5.4 miles) long, offering a mix of compacted-stone forestry tracks and tarmac roads. The Usk Reservoir Track – Stream Under Old Metal Bridge loop from Usk Reservoir Dam is a great example of a circular route.
Is there parking available for touring cyclists at Usk Reservoir?
Yes, parking facilities are available at Usk Reservoir, making it convenient for cyclists to start their tours. The reservoir's main car park provides access to the popular circular routes and the wider network of trails.
Can I access Usk Reservoir cycling routes using public transport?
While Usk Reservoir is in a remote location, the market town of Llandovery, a few miles north-west, has a train station. From Llandovery, you could cycle to the reservoir, though this would add to the overall route length and challenge.
Are there places to eat or drink near the cycling routes?
The immediate vicinity of Usk Reservoir is quite remote, but the nearby market town of Llandovery offers amenities such as pubs and cafes where you can refuel after your ride. There are also picnic tables along the reservoir trail for those who prefer to bring their own refreshments.
What kind of scenery and natural features can I expect to see while cycling?
Cyclists can expect open views, fresh air, and a quiet atmosphere. The routes offer beautifully scenic views across the 280-acre reservoir and through the serene Glasfynydd Forest. You'll also catch glimpses of the Black Mountains. The remote location also makes it a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, offering exceptional views of the night sky.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions to explore near the cycling routes?
Beyond the reservoir itself, you can explore the wonderfully isolated lakes of Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn Y Fan Fawr, with trails leading to them. The market town of Llandovery features a ruined 13th-century castle and trails along the River Towy. A few miles north-east, you can also find a Roman site and an ancient stone circle.
Are the touring cycling routes around Usk Reservoir dog-friendly?
Many of the trails around Usk Reservoir are suitable for dogs, especially the forestry tracks and quiet lanes. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock or wildlife, and to check for any specific signage regarding dog access or restrictions within the Brecon Beacons National Park.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling around Usk Reservoir?
The Usk Reservoir area is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be serene but may require more preparation due to potentially colder and wetter conditions on the remote tracks.
Most popular routes around Usk Reservoir
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